KARACHI – In a major political development, the Sindh nationalists, while maintaining their vehement opposition to the ruling PPP, on Tuesday offered conditional support to the PML-N’s call for waging a joint anti-government struggle for the implementation of the Supreme Court’s orders.
“If the PML-N holds out concrete assurances that it will give more rights to the province of Sindh when it comes to power, we can assist it in its movement against the PPP-led government,” asserted nationalist leaders The Nation talked to.
Two days ago, Nawaz Sharif announced to approach Sindh nationalists to drum up support for his party’s anti-government campaign. The former premier’s announcement came in the wake of Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s conviction for failing to carry out the apex court’s orders to reopen the corruption cases against President Zardari.
“We can cooperate with any political group intending to root out lawlessness, stem corruption and offset illiteracy,” said Awami Tehreek chief Ayaz Latif Palijo. “(Likewise), we can shake hands with Nawaz Sharif for the rule of law, free and fair elections in the country, and evolving a comprehensive plan to rehabilitate millions of people displaced by the heavy rainfall and ensuing floods,” Palijo said of the areas his party proposed to the PML-N to launch struggle for. Palijo, who is also the convener of the Sindh Progressive Nationalists’ Alliance (SPNA), called on the incumbent rulers not to confront the apex court. “(And) after the decision on his review appeal in the contempt case, Gilani must step down as the country’s premier,” Palijo said while adding that the PPP must announce new elections at this time of the year to avoid further conflicts among the state institutions.
Shah Muhammad Shah of the Jalal Mehmood-led Sindh United Party said the SPNA had already declared that it would oppose any confrontation between the state institutions. He again enjoined caution to the government, exhorting it to evade from a tug of war with the judiciary. “Our – the SUP – arms are open for Nawaz Sharif,” said Shah as he showed his party’s willingness to be part of the movement against the government. He, however, asked the ruling party to honour the Supreme Court’s orders, besides demanding “convicted Gilani” to bow out as the prime minister. The SUP leader recalled that the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) was aimed at hiding the illegalities committed by politicians.
It may be mentioned here that the Sindh National Front (SNF) of Mumtaz Bhutto has already announced to merge with the PML-N. The merger will be officially announced by Mumtaz Bhutto during Nawaz Sharif’s visit to Mirpur Bhutto in the next week, according to Ayub Shar, a senior SNF leader.